On September 6, 2003, a Cessna 150J (registration N60571) was involved in an aviation accident near Farmington, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper procedures/directives, and the delayed activation of carburetor heat which resulted in the loss of engine power and subsequent impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost engine power after turning final for runway 07, leading to a forced landing in a clear area. The aircraft nosed over, separating the engine and damaging the empennage. Carburetor icing conditions were present.
Accident Overview
A pilot reported that while preparing to land on runway 07, he did not engage the carburetor heat until after turning onto final approach. Shortly thereafter, the engine experienced a loss of power, though the pilot noted it did not miss or sputter. As the airplane descended below the runway elevation, the pilot attempted to land in the only available clear area. During the touchdown, the aircraft impacted terrain and nosed over, resulting in the engine separating from the airframe and substantial damage to the empennage.
Meteorological Conditions
According to carburetor icing charts, the weather conditions at the time were conducive for serious carburetor icing at any power setting.